Chances are you will be using a lot of tech this Christmas, after all it’s 2018, where Smartphones are actually pretty smart, tablets are nearly as big as laptops and every device is always online. Plus we talk to our tech more than ever before. But how many of us our thinking about cyber security? It’s something that is becoming an increasing concern with major problems like ransomware halting business and nasties lurking on public wifi to name a few. To help keep you safe this Christmas and beyond, here are seven ways to keep your devices safe, based on my personal experiences with tech and clients…

1. Always update your devices to the latest OS version – This applies to most devices. I admit that sometimes Windows 10 does not always need the absolute latest update, but certainly for iOS (iPhone and iPad) and Android devices need the latest updates at all times.

2. Protect your passwords – Do not write passwords down. I recommend using a password manager like Dashlane which will remember your passwords with a master password. You can strengthen what is already military grade security even further by using a YubiKey.

3. Crush malware with malwarebytes – I have been using malwarebytes for many years and this fantastic little programme has helped me quarantine and remove thousands of potential threats from clients devices. The free version comes with a 2-week free trial and ransomware protection and when that ends you can keep the free version but you will need to manually run scans often.

5. Protect yourself against keyloggers – There are different ways to keep you safe from keyloggers. For example for Windows there is a great program called keyscrambler which encrypts as you type in-browser (free version). The professional version encrypts what you type in 170+ apps and programmes. Another great app is Zemana for Androidwhich has anti-keylogging technology.

6. Backup your data – Various methods above will kelp keep you safe from ransomware but it’s always a good idea to backup all of your data to either a cloud like OneDriveor to an external hard drive / USB.

7. Use a VPN when you connect to a public wifi – I would not necessarily recommend a VPN (virtual private network) when you are connected to your own router, however, I would always recommend using a VPN when you connect to a public wifi. There are many free ones to choose from, but my personal favourite paid for VPN is CyberGhost.